Central Province, Cook Islands renew historic ties

Central Province and the Cook Islands have renewed their long-standing friendship and cultural ties with the signing of a Sister Province Partnership Arrangement at APEC Haus on Tuesday.

The agreement was signed by Central Province Governor Rufina Peter and Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown after Papua New Guinea and the Cook Islands signed their first development cooperation framework.

The partnership is expected to strengthen relations between Central Province and Rarotonga through cultural exchange programs, economic cooperation, and regional partnerships aimed at improving the lives of people in both communities.

The signing ceremony took place during the inaugural Melanesian Oceans Summit and marked a historic relationship that began more than 150 years ago when early Christian missionaries from the London Missionary Society arrived in Central Province.

Governor Peter described the agreement as another important blessing for Central Province and said it would strengthen ties between the two island communities.

She said the partnership would create opportunities in areas such as culture and heritage, education, youth exchange, women’s empowerment, tourism, climate change, agriculture, sports, trade, and investment.

“These missionaries shaped our communities, education, and faith,” Governor Peter said.

“Today’s ceremony shows that the ocean connects our people. We are committed to continuing friendship, respect, and cooperation for future generations.”

Governor Peter also thanked the Government and people of the Cook Islands and said she looked forward to stronger cooperation and friendship in the years ahead.